From an unlikely place, an unlikely band. Not subscribing to any particular scene or style and yet fitting into many, Primitive Reason have the rare ability it takes to create a style of music that can be called their own and let their music speak for itself. From intense grooves and mellow moods to hard hitting power, the band weaves a unique musical soundscape that gives life to the vocalists' mystical story-telling. Instruments such as the Indian Tabla and Sitar, the Australian Didjeridoo, the African Djembé, and the Middle-Eastern Darabukkas add an ethnic flavor to the eclectic mix of hardcore/metal, ska/ reggae/dub, world music, drum and bass, and urban grooves which make up their characteristic sound. It can be said that Primitive Reason has a spirit of its own, which goes beyond the sum of its members, its character evolving with time, from record to record in its pursuit of a clearer and fuller expression.
The band was formed over ten years ago, in the coastal town of Cascais, Portugal. The members all being of diverse nationalities including American, Spanish, French, and Portuguese backgrounds, quickly developed a melting pot of styles and influences that characterized their innovative new sound. After releasing two critically acclaimed albums in Portugal (Alternative Prison- 1996 and Tips and Shortcuts- 1998), for which they earned "Best Upcoming National Band," "Best National Band," "National Song of The Year" and "Best National Album" nominations in successive "Blitz Award" presentations, as well as, a spot on the Tejo Beat compilation CD of promising new talents by producer Mario Caldato Jr., the band was looking to further its musical experience beyond borders, and so relocated to the vibrant melting pot that is New York City.
Primitive Reason quickly became a fixture on the NYC circuit, playing such renowned venues as CBGBs, The Mercury Lounge, The Knitting Factory and The Wetlands, to name just a few. Their third album, Some of Us, was recorded in NYC during the fall of 2000 and featured some friends they had made on the scene such as Buford O'Sullivan from the Scofflaws and members of the Toasters and the New York Ska Jazz Ensemble.
To kick off the release of Some of Us, Primitive Reason set out on their first U.S. Tour. In three months they passed several times through every major city, touring with acts such as Fishbone, The Urge, The Misfits, Murphy's Law and The Pilfers.
Following their successful national tours of the U.S., the band returned to Portugal in 2001 to promote the European release of the album. After two sold out headlining concerts in Lisbon and Porto, the band spent most of the year playing the European festival circuit alongside such diverse international acts as Manu Chao, Soulfly, Lamb, Rammstein, Bush, UB40, Slipknot and Nickelback.
In early 2002 the band took a break from touring. Each member travelled to a different part of the globe: to Asia, South America, North America, and Europe, to explore their individual and collective interests in other musical roots and cultures. These experiences would deeply inspire the music that can be heard on their following works.
The Firescroll (2003), their 4th release, generated rave reviews with the public as well as the media. Many headlining concerts, radio and TV appearances (including live performances) followed, as well as, an opening slot in front of 30,000 fans at the Rock in Lisbon stadium festival alongside Marilyn Manson, Audioslave, Deftones, and Disturbed.
The bands videoclips for the singles Kindian and Had I the Courage also proved to be successful, being voted ..1 ahead of top international acts on several TV programs. The success of The Firescroll coupled with the power of their impressionable live performances earned them a nomination for Best Band at the 2003 MTV European Music Awards.
Pictures in the Wall (2005), Primitive Reason's latest offering, is the reflection of the diversity that characterizes and always has been a trademark of this unique band, a work that confirms the band’s maturity and confidence, a result of the experience gained throughout a ten year recording/touring career. Since it's release the band has spent most of the year touring extensively, with highlights including their first UK Tour, as well as, an opening stint for System of a Down, Prodigy, and Incubus.
Since the beginning of their existence, Primitive Reason have remained faithful to their roots and ideals, while consistently re-affirming their position as one of the leaders on the international underground music scene. The best is yet to come as Primitive Reason continues to pave the way with their ground-breaking new sound, backed by an already massive cult following that continues to spread across the globe.
Primitive Reason is:
Guillermo de Llera- Vocals, Percussion, & Didjiridu
Abel Beja- Guitar & Vocals
James Beja- Bass & Vocals
Helder Brazete- Drums
Ricardo 'Magala'- Trumpet
João Marques- Trombone
For more info please visit: primitivereason.com
Check out the artist's website:
http://www.primitivereason.comTrack List:
1. Kindian
2. Shadow Man
3. Stormy Weather
4. Coming in from the Desert
5. Dinero
6. Had I the Courage
7. Leo's Study
8. The Cost
9. 5 and 3
10. Within the Temple
11. White Tree
12. Spliff 'em All
13. The Warring Twins
14. Breathe (Respiratum Asthmaticus)
15. Weakness shall not Enter
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